Historic renovation of 112 Washington Place sets a new standard for contemporary living
Released on: August 14, 2008, 8:55 am
Press Release Author: Alexandria Richards
Industry: Real Estate
Press Release Summary: Blesso Properties has announced the company's newest project - the restoration of a Federal townhouse in the West Village, set for completion this fall.
Press Release Body: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: (New York, NY, August 11, 2008) - Blesso Properties (BP), a Manhattan-based real estate development firm with numerous record-breaking sales in Manhattan, has announced the company's newest project - the restoration of a Federal townhouse in the West Village, set for completion this fall. Transforming 112 Washington Place, a neglected 1832 townhouse into a modern, historically-inspired residence was no easy feat, but with two other West Village townhouse gut renovations recently completed and sold for record prices, BP was equipped to take on another.
When BP initially toured 112 Washington two years ago, passersby assumed the building was abandoned. The home was actually occupied by a gentleman whose family had owned the property for more than one hundred years and it had remained almost unchanged during that time. "Walking into the house was like walking into a time capsule explains project architect Andrea Steele of ANDArchitects, "We found newspapers from the late 1800s, flags with thirteen stars, and tax filings in Quill pen. the entire home was being held together by layers of paint." With the residence in such a neglected state yet so rich in history, the challenge was to preserve the original fundamental "context" while converting the townhouse into a modern dwelling deserving of its setting in of the world's most sought after neighborhoods. BP is a firm of historic preservationists and makes every attempt to salvage and restore the unique elements that are uncovered in each project. 112 Washington presented enormous challenges-the front façade was literally slipping off the building, for instance-but BP still managed to save and reuse key elements such as the fireplaces and the doorknobs.
The extensive renovation process began in the home's parlor where dramatic light and unique proportions brought to mind another era. "As the focal point of the townhome, we wanted to treat the parlor as a found object while we renovated around it," explains Steele. In order to expand on the flood of natural light, a double-height living room was created for a stronger connection to the magnificent outdoor garden, while details such as David Weeks light fixtures and a wood-burning fireplace were added. The large garden, an unusual luxury in Manhattan, connects to the living room through a dramatic windowed wall, generating stunning views through the building of the tree-lined streets and creating a true indoor-outdoor feeling year-round. The front façade was restored to its original glory, and boasts early details such as wrought-iron railings, fluted columns, and a majestic entrance under the unique transom. BP strived to bring the building back to its former glory where possible while thoroughly updating other elements to satisfy today's discerning buyer.
Upon its completion this fall, 112 Washington Place will be a new example of "classic meets contemporary", complete with modern amenities such as a video/intercom security system with multiple stations and Sonos multi-room audio systems. Lavish finishes in this grand 3,500 square foot residence will include 5-inch North American black walnut floors and stairs, white carrera marble, four fireplaces, and custom, handmade millwork.
Rarities such as a finished basement, a full-floor master bedroom/bathroom suite, and a penthouse addition complete with entertainment room, wet bar and roof deck, make this four-story townhome a sought-after residence that will set a new standard for elegant downtown living.
ABOUT BP: Blesso Properties, the innovative firm from banker-turned-developer Matthew Blesso, is making a big impression on New York City real estate. The company's unconventional approach has earned numerous design awards and rapid sell-outs previously unseen in competing markets including highest average sellout for any building north of 111th Street and highest price per square foot of any five-story walk-up in New York history. By employing creative design, eco-friendly methods, and a goal of transforming underutilized buildings into premier residences, BP produces unique and stunning environments with sensitivity to the character of their neighborhoods. The recent sell-out of a Harlem loft (some units above asking price), as well as two townhouses in the West Village, prove that BP's formula for success pays off even when the market is weak.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.BLESSOPROPERTIES.COM or contact Robert McCain, Stribling Marketing Associates, (646) 613-2654
Media Contact: Alexandria Richards 305-572-9883 x304 alexandria@americasmediagroup.com
Web Site: http://WWW.BLESSOPROPERTIES.COM
Contact Details: Media Contact: Alexandria Richards 305-572-9883 x304 alexandria@americasmediagroup.com